John "Junior" C. Almeida, Jr.

Born in New Bedford he was the beloved 1st son of John C. Almeida and Cisela (Pereira) Almeida

He was a graduate of New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, class of 1991. Junior then wanted to enlist in the Army. He, alongside his newfound brothers & sisters fought for our freedom in the United States Army 10th Mountain Division in Ft Drum NY. Bravely fighting and protecting in Desert Storm and landing in both Haiti to “Uphold Democracy” and Somalia in “Operation Restore Hope”

Upon return from fighting for our country, Junior attended Westfield State University with some of his closest friends, where he earned his degree in Criminal Justice.

Junior always dreamed of becoming a “fireman” since the age of 2. In 2000 he did just that. Junior became a dedicated New Bedford Firefighter. He was so honored & committed. He endured some of the most dangerous conditions for 23 years. Junior also met another family while in the dept. He met some unbreakable bonds a brotherhood that kept him alive and safe.

Junior also served as an Acushnet Police officer for 10 years. Protecting the town, establishing relationships as well.

Junior was a hero, a man who stayed true to his beliefs and commitments. There was no changing his mind.

Junior’s world revolved around his daughter, the love of his life, Gianna Rae. He was so incredibly proud of her amazing ability to shine in all of her accomplishments. He coached her softball and soccer teams for many years. He was passionate, involved and dedicated. He loved playing soccer. He played on club teams (Clube Recordações de Portugal) and in high school.

Some other things Junior enjoyed doing were playing softball for local leagues, street hockey, break dancing (yes he did that) and placing bets! You name it he bet on it.

In his teenaged years he learned to be a drummer he even played in a garage band.

Junior was an avid football fan.

“Hail to the Redskins” no one loved them as much as he.

Junior is known for his beef cake appearance due to his endless hours at the gym. His multiple and meaningful tattoos, The way he cut his shirts & sweats, wearing his Kangol hats, having Carmex chapstick at hand, a bottle of propel grape water, a protein shake, always late, and pulling a prank or two on you were some of his trademarks. He took pride in the ability to keep his cars and trucks in pristine condition. A clean freak he was. Everything had to be perfect and it was never good enough.

Junior had a special love for his late dogs Rocko, Tyson, and Oscar.

Junior was truly a likable guy. If you were lucky enough to have met him you would know his infamous toast we will forever follow, and never forget

“Never Above You, Never Below You, Always Beside You”.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his daughter, Gianna Rae Almeida of Acushnet; his former wife Jennifer, his sister, Jennifer Fonseca and her husband Paul of Acushnet; his brother, Jeffrey Almeida and his wife Anna of New Bedford; his Godchildren, Devon, Amanda, Danyka, Adrian and Vivian; his nieces and nephews, Alexys, Hailey, Jaivon, Danyka, Jordan, Adrian, Alani and Milani; and his former in-laws, Brian Medeiros and Janice Medeiros.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2023 from 4-8 PM in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford. Funeral, Friday, May 12 at 9 AM from the funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 AM in Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, 136 Earle St., New Bedford. Burial to follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. For online tributes, please visit: www.rock-funeralhome